countyscore

Clarendon County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#23 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
42.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Cost of Living 82.9Property Tax 77.3

County Report Card

About Clarendon County, South Carolina

Affordable Rural Life Near the Median

Clarendon County earns a composite score of 42.7, placing it somewhat below the national median of 50.0. Its profile is defined by high affordability and utility reliability, offsetting lower scores in economic categories. It remains a competitive option for those seeking a slower pace of life.

A Solid State-Level Performer

The county’s score of 42.7 is nearly identical to the South Carolina state average of 42.8. It represents a quintessential rural South Carolina lifestyle, particularly for those connected to the state's central landscapes. It offers a predictable and stable environment relative to its in-state peers.

Reliable Utilities and High Affordability

Clarendon County excels with a Water Score of 86.0 and a Cost Score of 82.9. Median rent is a very affordable $728 per month, and the effective tax rate is a manageable 0.576%. These factors combined create a high degree of financial predictability for residents.

Addressing Safety and Healthcare Access

Safety is a significant challenge, with a score of 3.2, alongside a Health Score of 22.9. The Income Score of 12.4 also highlights a median household income of $48,887, which is low by national standards. Improving these community outcomes is central to the county’s future growth.

Suited for Retirees and Renters

Clarendon County is an excellent fit for those seeking the lowest possible housing costs and reliable utility infrastructure. It is particularly attractive to retirees or remote workers who want to stretch their dollars further in a quiet setting. The low median rent makes it a standout for cost-conscious movers.

Score breakdown

Tax77.3Cost82.9Safety3.2Health22.9Schools32Income12.4Risk23.5Water86Weather48.5
🏛77.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠82.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼12.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡3.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡23.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨21.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Clarendon County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Clarendon County

via TaxByCounty

Clarendon's taxes significantly above average

Clarendon's 0.576% effective tax rate far exceeds the national median of 0.52%, ranking it in the upper third of U.S. counties. At $848 annually, the median property tax is about 32% higher than the national median of $2,690 relative to property values.

Clarendon ranks among state's highest

Clarendon's 0.576% rate ranks in the top tier statewide, well above South Carolina's 0.542% average. The median tax bill of $848 falls just below the state median of $939, despite property values somewhat lower than the statewide norm.

High-tax county in the region

Clarendon's 0.576% rate is surpassed only by Colleton County's 0.605% among these eight counties. It substantially exceeds Charleston (0.413%), Calhoun (0.423%), and Chesterfield (0.462%).

Moderate values, above-average tax

Clarendon homeowners with a median property value of $147,300 pay approximately $848 in annual property tax. With mortgage escrow included, that figure typically reaches around $1,080 per year.

Clarendon residents should appeal assessments

With Clarendon's above-average tax rate, challenging your property assessment is especially valuable. Many homeowners in the county pay more than their fair share—a formal appeal can unlock measurable annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clarendon County

via CostByCounty

Clarendon leads South Carolina in housing relief

Clarendon County renters spend just 17.9% of income on housing—a full 2.2 percentage points below the national average of 20.1%. At $728 monthly rent paired with a median income of $48,887, Clarendon stands as the region's most housing-secure market.

Best rent-to-income ratio in South Carolina

Clarendon's 17.9% housing burden beats South Carolina's 20.1% average by a significant margin, ranking it the state's most affordable county by this metric. Its $728 rent is the second-lowest among all surveyed counties, delivering exceptional value across the board.

Clarendon beats nearby counties on burden metric

Clarendon's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio outpaces Cherokee (19.9%), Chesterfield (19.6%), Calhoun (21.0%), and Chester (21.5%), making it the region's affordability champion. While Chesterfield offers lower absolute rents at $776, Clarendon's superior ratio reflects better income-to-cost alignment.

Renters enjoy exceptional housing-to-income fit

Clarendon renters spend $728 monthly on housing from a median income of $48,887—yielding a lean 17.9% housing burden well below the 30% comfort threshold. Homeowners pay $584 monthly, representing just 14.3% of income, offering strong tenure balance for both renting and owning households.

Clarendon offers South Carolina's best value ratio

If you want the lowest housing burden relative to income, Clarendon's 17.9% ratio is unbeatable in the state. Consider Clarendon versus Chesterfield: while Chesterfield's rents are slightly lower, Clarendon's superior income-to-cost alignment may offer better long-term security.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clarendon County

via IncomeByCounty

Clarendon's income significantly lags nationwide

Clarendon County's median household income of $48,887 falls $25,868 short of the national median of $74,755. The county ranks well below U.S. norms, a common pattern for agricultural and low-population counties across the South.

Below state average but stable ranking

Clarendon's $48,887 falls $8,119 below South Carolina's state average of $57,006, placing it in the lower third among 46 counties. Per capita income of $28,289 slightly trails the state average of $32,382, indicating relatively even income distribution.

Moderate income amid rural peers

Clarendon's $48,887 positions it in the middle of its rural peer group: above Chesterfield ($47,620) and Darlington ($47,419), but below Chester ($51,216) and Colleton ($48,779). Charleston County's $84,320 represents an aspirational benchmark 73% higher.

Best rent-to-income ratio in the group

Clarendon's rent-to-income ratio of 17.9% is the lowest among these eight counties, meaning households spend just under 18% on housing. This strong affordability advantage, paired with a median home value of $147,300, provides stability for residents' broader financial planning.

Maximize housing savings advantage

Clarendon residents enjoy the group's best housing affordability ratio, freeing up income for emergency funds, education, and retirement savings. Prioritize employer-sponsored retirement plans and explore skill development opportunities to raise household earnings toward state and national averages.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clarendon County

via CrimeByCounty

Clarendon County Crime Rate Overview

Clarendon County struggles with a crime rate of 4014.3 per 100,000, far exceeding the national average of 2,385.5. This leads to a safety score of 93.7, indicating a need for increased vigilance.

Ranking in South Carolina

With a safety score of 93.7, Clarendon falls well below the South Carolina average of 95.4. It is among the counties with higher reported incident rates in the state.

Neighboring County Comparisons

Clarendon's crime rate of 4014.3 is significantly higher than Calhoun (2693.5) and Colleton (3493.1). It presents a more challenging safety environment than most of its immediate neighbors.

Analyzing Property vs Violent Crime

Property crime is high at 3459.2, while violent crime sits at 555.1 per 100,000. These figures suggest that theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft are the primary drivers of crime here.

Safeguarding Your Property

With property crime being the dominant issue, high-quality locks and security cameras are vital. Always lock your vehicles and keep valuables out of sight to minimize temptation.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Clarendon County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy below state and nation

Clarendon residents live to 71.2 years, falling 6.7 years short of the U.S. average and 1.3 years below South Carolina's state average. More than one in five residents (22%) report poor or fair health, well above the national 15% rate.

Among the lowest-performing counties

Clarendon County ranks 36th out of 46 South Carolina counties for life expectancy, with persistently high rates of poor health and chronic disease. The county's outcomes lag peers across the Lowcountry and Pee Dee regions.

Consistent challenges in rural region

Clarendon's 71.2-year life expectancy outpaces Colleton and Chester counties but trails Charleston by 6.7 years. The county's 32 primary care providers per 100,000 residents offer limited choice compared to higher-performing neighbors.

Highest uninsured rate in group

Clarendon's 12.8% uninsured rate tops most peer counties, and the county has just 32 primary care and 119 mental health providers per 100,000 residents. These gaps in coverage and access directly contribute to delayed care and worse health outcomes.

Coverage is within reach

One in eight Clarendon residents lack health insurance—enrollment through South Carolina's Health Insurance Marketplace or Medicaid can improve access to preventive and urgent care. Contact your county health department or visit healthcare.gov to find plans for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Clarendon County

via SchoolsByCounty

Clarendon's Specialized Public Education

Clarendon County's public data identifies one high school serving 71 students. This unique infrastructure focuses on secondary education for a specific student population.

Strong Graduation Rates in Clarendon

The county maintains an 86.3% graduation rate, which sits comfortably above the state average of 84.2%. Per-pupil expenditure is reported at $6,865, slightly under the South Carolina median.

A Targeted District Approach

The Department of Correction N04 district oversees the county's identified student enrollment. There are currently no public charter schools listed in the local directory data.

Rural and Highly Individualized

Attending school here means a rural environment with very small class sizes, as Turbeville High averages just 71 students. This creates a highly focused and quiet learning atmosphere.

Rural Living Near Local Schools

Clarendon County provides a peaceful rural backdrop for residents seeking high graduation rates. Potential homebuyers should consider the unique educational landscape of the area when evaluating local options.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clarendon County

via RiskByCounty

Clarendon faces above-average national disaster risk

Clarendon County's composite risk score of 76.49 places it in the Relatively Low category but notably above the national average, reflecting above-average exposure to multiple natural disaster types. The county scores critically on hurricane (94.20), wildfire (81.17), and earthquake (88.39), indicating significant cumulative threat. This profile positions Clarendon among America's higher-risk counties despite its South Carolina Relatively Low rating.

Clarendon ranks above state average risk

Clarendon County's composite score of 76.49 exceeds South Carolina's 70.75 state average, placing it in the upper tier of the state's most hazard-exposed counties. Hurricane risk (94.20) and wildfire risk (81.17) particularly distinguish Clarendon from lower-risk interior counties, while earthquake exposure (88.39) adds additional concern. This positioning reflects Clarendon's vulnerability to coastal weather systems and seismic activity.

Clarendon comparable to nearby Colleton County

Clarendon County's 76.49 score closely mirrors neighboring Colleton County (85.46), positioning both as the region's higher-risk counties with similar hazard exposure patterns. Both counties exceed Chester County (43.16) and Chesterfield County (73.98) in overall risk, reflecting their greater proximity to Atlantic coastal threats. This similarity suggests shared disaster preparedness challenges across the region.

Hurricanes and wildfires dominate Clarendon hazards

Clarendon County faces exceptionally elevated hurricane risk (94.20) and wildfire risk (81.17), with both scoring in the critical range and representing the county's primary disaster concerns. Earthquake risk (88.39) also ranks well above typical county levels, while tornado (60.34) and flood (50.22) risks remain more moderate. The hurricane exposure particularly reflects Clarendon's proximity to Atlantic storm tracks.

Hurricane and wildfire coverage essential

Clarendon County homeowners must carry comprehensive wind and hurricane coverage given the 94.20 hurricane risk score—ensure your policy includes adequate deductibles and replacement cost coverage. Wildfire insurance deserves attention if your property adjoins forested areas, and earthquake coverage is worth considering given the elevated 88.39 score. Review your policy annually and maintain defensible space around your home to reduce wildfire vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clarendon County

via WeatherByCounty

High Heat and Heavy Rainfall

Clarendon County averages 63.1°F annually, placing it among the warmer regions in the United States. Its 55.7 inches of annual precipitation is exceptionally high compared to the national average. This creates a lush but very humid environment.

One of the State's Wettest Counties

At 55.7 inches of rain, Clarendon far exceeds the South Carolina average of 48.9 inches. Its 63.1°F average temperature also tracks higher than the 62.8°F state norm. This county is a hotspot for both moisture and heat in the Sandhills.

Wetter and Hotter Than Neighbors

Clarendon receives nearly 7 inches more rain annually than neighboring Dillon County. It also faces 75 extreme heat days, significantly more than the 54 days seen in nearby Colleton. This makes it one of the most weather-intense counties in the region.

Extremely Hot Summers and Damp Winters

July averages 80.6°F, but the real story is the 75 days of extreme heat each year. Winter is mild and wet, with a 46.9°F average and only 0.5 inches of snow. Rainfall is frequent across all four seasons.

Invest in Drainage and Cooling

Given the 55.7 inches of annual rain, high-quality gutters and site drainage are essential. Residents must prepare for a grueling summer season that includes 75 days of temperatures above 90°F. Humidity control is the primary challenge for home maintenance here.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clarendon County

via SoilByCounty

Extra Acidic Lowcountry Soil

Clarendon County features a very low pH of 4.66, making it one of the more acidic regions in the state. This is significantly lower than the South Carolina average of 5.27 and the national median of 6.5. Specialized plants like blueberries thrive in these conditions, though most vegetables will require pH adjustments.

Sandy Texture Dominance

The soil is 72.5% sand, with silt and clay contributing just 14.5% and 10.4% respectively. This high sand content provides excellent aeration for roots but leads to very quick water movement. Soil management should focus on building structure to prevent nutrient leaching during heavy rains.

Rich Organic Matter Content

The county boasts a high organic matter level of 2.92%, which is well above the state average of 2.05%. This richness helps the soil hold an available water capacity of 0.119 in/in. These factors combined earn the county a respectable soil score of 21.3, indicating strong agricultural potential.

Managing Rapid Infiltration

While specific drainage class data is not available, the 72.5% sand content suggests the ground is very permeable. High organic matter helps buffer this drainage, but irrigation planning is still vital for consistent crop yields. Monitoring for quick dry-out periods will save your garden during the summer.

Summer Crops in Zone 8b

In Hardiness Zone 8b, the long summers are perfect for heat-loving crops like okra and watermelon. The high organic matter provides a great head start for any gardener looking to grow a lush backyard oasis. Dig in and take advantage of this naturally rich soil today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clarendon County

via LawnByCounty

Clarendon's Difficult Growing Curve

With a lawn difficulty score of 25.8, Clarendon County is one of the more challenging places in South Carolina to maintain a perfect lawn. The combination of intense heat and highly acidic soil in Hardiness Zone 8b requires a dedicated maintenance routine.

High Rainfall and Scorching Heat

Clarendon County receives a generous 55.7 inches of annual precipitation, well above the state average of 48.9. However, this is countered by 75 extreme heat days, which is significantly higher than the state average of 63. This high-heat environment drives 5,464 Growing Degree Days, making frequent mowing a necessity.

Addressing Extreme Soil Acidity

The local soil is exceptionally acidic with a pH of 4.66, the lowest among nearby counties and far from the ideal 6.0 range. While the 72.5% sand content provides some drainage, the low pH will lock up nutrients and stunt grass growth. Extensive lime applications are required to make this soil productive for standard lawn grasses.

Water Management in the Heat

The county faced 21 weeks of drought last year, and 26.1% of the area currently experiences severe drought (D2+). Despite the high annual rainfall, the 75 days of heat above 90°F can parched the sandy soil in a matter of hours. Focus on watering in the pre-dawn hours to ensure every drop reaches the roots before evaporating.

Picking Resilient Zone 8b Grasses

Bahiagrass and Centipede are favored here for their ability to tolerate acidic soils and extreme South Carolina heat. You can safely begin planting after the last frost on March 25, giving your lawn plenty of time to mature. The growing season remains active until the first frost arrives around November 11.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clarendon County's county score?
Clarendon County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 42.6 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Clarendon County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Clarendon County ranks #23 among all counties in South Carolina on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Clarendon County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Clarendon County is $848, with an effective tax rate of 0.58%. This earns Clarendon County a tax score of 77.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clarendon County?
The median household income in Clarendon County, South Carolina is $48,887 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clarendon County earns an income score of 12.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clarendon County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Clarendon County scores 42.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #23 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Clarendon County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Clarendon County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.